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Huckabee begins role as US envoy to Israel

In Jerusalem ceremony, he affirms commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and confronting threats like Iran.

Mike Huckabee
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee speaks during his credentials ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, April 21, 2025. Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90.

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee presented his credentials as United States Ambassador to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, during a ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem on Monday.

Herzog welcomed Huckabee, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. “The U.S.-Israel alliance is stronger than ever,” the president said, praising the Arkansan’s longstanding support for Israel.

In his remarks, Huckabee recalled his first visit to Israel more than 50 years ago and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “This is a sacred honor,” he said. “I look forward to working to deepen our strategic partnership.”

Huckabee emphasized U.S.-Israel cooperation on security, intelligence and innovation, while warning of shared threats posed by Iran.

The event, broadcast live by Israel’s Government Press Office, was attended by dignitaries including Dr. Miriam Adelson. Huckabee was confirmed by the U.S. Senate earlier this month.

“Let the message to the IRGC be clear: If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost—taking out three of yours.”
Crowds thronged the plaza at Judaism’s second-holiest site, with the event broadcast on giant screens along the Old City walls.
The meeting included a reunion between two Satmar rebbes who have been at odds since a succession dispute divided the community after their father’s death in 2006.
“By welcoming Mamdani into a Jewish space as if he were safe, we tell Jews to lower their guard and tell everyone else that our concerns are overblown,” Inna Vernikov told JNS. “They are not.”